Arts Emergency embraces shared leadership model

Arts Emergency is to live by its values of “shared power” and “collaborative decision-making” with the introduction of a joint leadership model.

The charity, which provides mentoring and resources to assist disadvantaged and underrepresented young people into creative industry careers, has promoted its director of fundraising and marketing to a co-chief executive role.

LUCY NEWTON will now lead alongside founder NEIL GRIFFITHS, with the organisation crediting Newton with “leading income strategies that have increased annual revenue by 250%”.

Newton said: “I’m deeply grateful to step into this role alongside Neil, whose vision has inspired Arts Emergency from day one.

“This movement is beautiful, generative and a beacon of hope during trying times for the creative sector. I can’t wait to work together with Neil, colleagues, young people, trustees and thousands in the network to build an alternative structure that delivers a more equitable sector for the most bright, curious and inspiring young people. They are our future and we cannot fail them.”

Griffiths added: “To share the overall leadership of our organisation and movement with such an inspiring young leader is both a privilege and a natural next step as our cause continues to evolve.”

In addition, Arts Emergency has made a number of additions to its board, with AMIE KIRBY, a current member of its youth collective group, joining as the organisation’s third young trustee. Also joining the board are DIMITY NICHOLLS, executive director of the multi-disciplinary arts organisation Fevered Sleep; SAMANTHA HANDS, who works in the Cabinet Office; and SUSAN VAN SCHALKWYK, of IT consultancy Serco.